If you are looking for something to spark your kids interest in all things electricity you need to try these simple DIY light sabers. Not only are these fun and easy to make, they will also have your kids thinking you are a super genius. I am always looking for fun, inexpensive ways to keep my kids entertained and learning. They are both really into electrical type activities. Their father is an electrical engineer so go figure. I on the other hand am not as savvy when it comes to these things. Enter Educational Innovations on teachersource.com. This site changed my life. This is one of many awesome activities I will be sharing with you over the next year. Not only is it very inexpensive to buy the kits from them, they have videos explaining the activity and a lesson to boot. You can also buy the supplies yourself without purchasing the kit. I found all the supplies needed at our local Home Depot store.
This activity focuses on electrical currents, open and closed. The light saber demonstrates these circuits so simply. The kids can actually see what is happening. So, let’s get to it. You will need to get a few supplies to get started: large craft stick, LED light, copper tape, a binder clip, and a watch battery. All products needed are linked below for your convenience.
First, you will need to cut two strips of the copper tape. One for each side of your craft stick. Make sure that these strips run the length of the stick, but do not go over the edge.
Next, you will put the prongs of your light on either side of one end of your craft stick. You will then secure the prongs to the stick with your copper tape. Cover the end of one prong with the tape and stick the entire strip of copper to the rest of the length of the stick. Do this on the other side as well. It should look like this.
On the other end of the stick, put the battery on one side right on top of the copper tape. You may secure the battery onto the stick with a piece of scotch tape.
When you put both sides of the paper clip down at the same time, you complete the circuit. Your light should turn on. When you lift the side of the clip that is on the battery, it opens the circuit, thus shutting off the light.
That is it! A simple and fun demonstration of electrical currents that the kids can play with for the rest of the day. Give it a try, your children will be amazed!
Copper Tape:
Craft Sticks:
Single LED Lights:
Binder Clips:
Watch Battery: